Acısu Rock Church

Dear visitors, I would now like to introduce you to the Acısu Rock Church, a significant cultural heritage site in the Bulancak district of Giresun that blends traces of the past with the natural texture of the rock. Located approximately two kilometers south of the Bulancak district center, west of İncüvez Creek and amidst hazelnut orchards, this structure was created by carving into the bedrock. Standing out for its appearance—seemingly hidden within the natural landscape—the church is a unique structure that sheds light on the region's historical and religious past. The exact date of the church's construction is unknown; there is no inscription or plaque providing information on this matter. However, based on its architectural features, it is dated to the Late Byzantine period. Also known locally as "Horse Cave" (At Mağarası) and "Acısu Cave" (Acısu Mağarası), the structure is said to derive its name from a nearby soda-rich water source. Its creation by carving into the bedrock is significant, as it demonstrates the ability of people at that time to utilize natural terrain conditions to create places of worship. Architecturally, the Acısu Rock Church stands out as a two-story, rock-carved complex. On the first floor, accessed via an entrance on the north side, there are three chapel sections arranged around a central passageway. These sections feature semicircular apses—key architectural elements of places of worship. Windows in certain parts of the structure allow natural light to enter the interior spaces. The second floor consists of two sections extending along a north-south axis. The absence of prominent decorative elements in the structure indicates that the rock mass itself constitutes the fundamental architectural element. The Acısu Rock Church is significant not only for its architectural features but also as a piece of cultural heritage worthy of preservation. The structure was registered and placed under protection by a decision of the Trabzon Regional Board for the Preservation of Cultural and Natural Assets on October 11, 1990. Although the church is not currently in active use, it represents a valuable asset for Giresun in terms of historical and religious tourism. When visiting the site, it is crucial to avoid damaging the rock surfaces and historical remains, and to preserve the natural texture of the surrounding environment.